Cut your home energy bill with simple fixes

PORTLAND, Ore. - As the cold weather creeps in many people are wondering how to warm up the house without hiking their energy bills.

Energy companies in Oregon expect more people will need assistance this year. Northwest Natural Gas and its partner Energy Trust of Oregon want to get the word out about the programs they have available and the six ways to save on your own bill.

First off, you can get a free home energy review.

Shawn O'Neill, a field manager with the Energy Trust of Oregon, will check your house from top to bottom looking for places where you're wasting energy.

One common issue is insulation. There are incentives available for adding insulation, not to mention the energy savings you'll recoup - up to 30 percent.

Another problem is dirty air filters.

"It affects your air quality, and it also can put undo pressure on your furnace so it doesn't work as efficiently," said Jenna Cooper-Gross, a Northwest Natural spokeswoman.

Changing them every three months can save up to 5 percent on your bill.

Another way to save is to set your water heater to 120 degrees and to keep it covered. That will save you between 3 percent and 5 percent.

Want to save another 10 percent?
 
Turn the thermostat down 10 degrees while sleeping or out of the house.

"You don't even know the difference because you are not there to feel it," Cooper-Gross said.

Finally, check all your windows and doors for drafts. A simple fix is to use extra caulking or weather stripping, which can save you up to 10 percent.
    
At the end of the energy review, you'll get a list of what you need to update and a list of local contractors who can help.
    
Another good way to save is to sign up for the "equal pay" program. It evens out your payments for the whole year.

"First of all you know what to expect," Cooper-Gross said. "Second of all, it can save you up to 45 percent on your winter heating payments."

If you need help paying your bill, you can see if you qualify for Northwest Natural's "gas assistance program." They are also taking donations for the program if you can help.

EVALUATE YOUR HOME FOR ENERGY SAVINGS

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHWEST NATURAL'S EQUAL PAYMENT PLAN

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHWEST NATURAL'S BILL PAYMENT ASSISTANCE